Keflex (Cephalexin)

Keflex Information:

Keflex (generic name: Cephalexin) is a drug which is prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections. Bacterial infections include upper respiratory infections, ear infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections. Keflex is in a group of drugs called cephalosporin antibiotics and is relation to penicillin. It works by fighting bacteria in the body. Cefalexin works by interfering with the ability of bacteria to form cell walls. The cell walls of bacteria are vital for their survival. They keep unwanted substances from entering their cells and stop the contents of their cells from leaking out. Cefalexin impairs the bonds that hold the bacterial cell wall together. This allows holes to appear in the cell walls and kills the bacteria. Cefalexin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that kills a wide variety of bacteria that cause a wide variety of commonly-occuring infections. Cefalexin is given by mouth to treat infections of the upper and lower airways, ears, skin and soft tissue. It may also be used to treat urinary tract infections, certain sexually-transmitted infections, bone and joint infections and dental infections.

Keflex Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Keflex including mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, joint pain and vaginal itching or discharge. More serious side effects may include watery or bloody diarrhea, seizures, fever, sore throat, severe headache, pale or yellowed skin, dark urine, confusion, weakness, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness, agitation, hallucinations and urinating more or less than normal. If you experience any side effects you must seek immediate medical attention for safety.

Keflex Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed it you, and there will also be dosage and information on the pack. Keflex comes in capsule and tablet form and should be with water. Do not crush, break or chew the capsules or tablets as this may cause too much of the drug to be released at once, which may have undesirable effects. Keflex should be stored at room temperature away from direct light and heat.

Keflex Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Keflex you should not take it, and should inform your doctor. You must consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, including liver or kidney disease, any stomach or intestinal disorder, diabetes or if you are malnourished. You should consult your doctor if you are taking any other medications, as they may interact with Keflex including blood thinners, metformin and probenecid. Consult your doctor if you are planning to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding as Keflex may cause harm to your baby.